MP visits Lorient to launch National Apprentice Week in Devon

Lorient, a market leader in sealing systems for door assemblies is delighted to be part of the National Apprentice Week celebrations. Mel Stride, MP for Mid Devon and Private Parliamentary Secretary to the Apprenticeships Minister, John Hayes, visited Lorient on Friday 3rd February to launch National Apprenticeship Week in his constituency.

The UK Government has long identified STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) education as a major priority at both school and Higher Education level and its aim is to create a strong supply of scientists, engineers, technologists and mathematicians to service the UK manufacturing industry. Lorient has a number of initiatives aimed at increasing its skill base in these areas; including supporting the Government’s renewed interest in Apprenticeships. Working in conjunction with Exeter College Lorient recently appointed two Apprentices: Liam Evans (ICT Practitioner) and Harrison Fewings (Mechanical Engineer).

Maria Simmonds, Managing Director said: “We believe strongly that supporting the Apprenticeship initiative is the right choice for a company like ours, where skills are learned over many years and on the job training is at the heart of how we develop staff. Our two apprentices have been a great success, fitting in well with our teams and blending their work-based learning with their college studies. They’re already making a positive contribution to our success. We will most certainly be considering further apprenticeships in the future.”

National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from 6 – 10 February is designed to celebrate Apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals and businesses. Dr John Chudley, Divisional Area Director, National Apprenticeship Service, Southern England, said: “Apprenticeships provide businesses with a significant return on investment by increasing productivity and introducing fresh new talent and innovation. They are also a sound stepping stone for individuals to build successful careers”. With more than 500 events and activities planned across England, including more than 80 in the South West it looks set to be the biggest and best yet.

To find out more about Apprenticeships at Lorient please contact our HR Department on 01626 834252.